Severe anemia as the presenting manifestation of giant cell arteritis

Arthritis Rheum. 1995 Mar;38(3):434-6. doi: 10.1002/art.1780380323.

Abstract

Giant cell (temporal, cranial) arteritis (GCA) is usually confirmed in patients presenting with classic features. Those who present with atypical features often undergo prolonged evaluations until a diagnosis is established. Severe anemia as an initial manifestation of GCA has rarely been described. We describe herein 2 patients with biopsy-proven GCA who presented with severe anemia and significant weight loss, which corrected after corticosteroid therapy.

Publication types

  • Case Reports

MeSH terms

  • Aged
  • Anemia / etiology*
  • Biopsy
  • Female
  • Giant Cell Arteritis / complications
  • Giant Cell Arteritis / diagnosis*
  • Giant Cell Arteritis / drug therapy
  • Humans
  • Male
  • Prednisone / therapeutic use

Substances

  • Prednisone